Bandwidth Scam

Database limits

A MySQL or Access database may come under a separate set of rules in relation to size and usage. Check the site carefully for details, including the terms and conditions.

Script limitations

Some scripts are well known to cause undue loads on servers and many hosting companies are very specific in regards to the kinds of scripts you can run - to the point that the hosting company will require that you submit any script you wish to use to them; before making it available to your site visitors. Scripts include everything from the simplest of feedback forms to complex forums - any element that requires processing can be considered as being a script.

Money Back Guarantees

Sounds great doesn't it - "If you aren't satisfied with the service within 30 days we'll refund your money!". Some companies are genuine in their offer, others aren't - check the fine print.

Uptime guarantee

As with money back guarantees, it's wise to check the fine print. Some uptime guarantees exclude just about every event that could lead to serious down time and are totally useless.

Content objections

In the terms and conditions of almost every web hosting service is a clause stating that they can terminate your account at any time, for any reason. In most instances, this is to protect the web host from the increasing number of unscrupulous individuals in our society who have a passion for litigation.

There is a down side to this - you may express a political opinion or religious view that may be in opposition to that of the web hosting company management. They are well within their rights to terminate your account. Check with the hosting company before signing up if your content is the subject of controversy, is highly political or religious.

Low fees/Setup fees/Contract length

In some instances, the low fees stated on the home page of a hosting company web site may only apply to long contracts, so it's important that before you commit that you are aware of minimum contract lengths and any hidden setup fees.

If you do find the lure of a very low rate over 12 months very attractive, think about how you'll feel if after one month you discover that the quality of service is not as indicated. Never commit to long contracts unless you are totally sure that the company can deliver what they've promised.

Customer support

Does the company offer true 24/7 personalized support? A very important aspect. Even if you only utilize the support team once every 6 months, it can mean the difference between having a successful online presence or one that falls over due to a simple issue that only the hosting service could rectify. Our previous article in this series, "Questions to ask a web host", contains some strategies for testing out a web hosts support system before purchase.

Get it in writing

Wherever possible, pre-sales enquiries should be submitted in writing and responses returned in same. An email is a legal document, whereas the memory of a telephone conversation is nowhere near as convincing.